Global Electrodynamics of the Aurora during Northward Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) and Associated Ionosphere-Magnetosphere Interactions

University Of Texas At Dallas, Richardson TX

Investigators

Abstract

Transpolar auroral arcs are an intriguing phenomenon that has not yet been fully explained. It relates to the complicated magnetosphere configuration and dynamics and complex magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling that characterize northward interplanetary field conditions. This is a 5-year data analysis project utilizing data sets from the POLAR, IMAGE and DMSP satellites, solar wind monitors and the SuperDARN radar network in addition to model results from advanced magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling models to address a number of outstanding questions on this phenomenon. Three specific objectives of the proposed project are: (1) Determine the relationship between transpolar arcs and other auroral phenomena that occur simultaneously, such as auroral substorms; (2) Determine the relation of transpolar arcs with ionospheric convection patterns, precipitating particles, and field-aligned currents in both hemispheres; and (3) Investigate the magnetospheric structure and dynamics during transpolar arc evolution. The broader impacts of the project includes graduate student participation and the promotion of women in science.